Susan Minjee Kim, one of her blog posts, “Fruit Versus Moreover Universe” discusses about “what are the parities and differences that position the two companies’ brands and values in the minds of consumers and why do majorities end up purchasing certain brands?”

Some of the categories of difference between iPad and Galaxy Tab could be design, cost, technical specifications, and brand reputation.I would personally go with Galaxy Tab. I prefer Galaxy Tab design because the screen is wider and has no home button. I do not like home buttons because I had an experience of not working home button with my iPod touch. Also, Galaxy Tab could insert micro SD card so that I can expand memories. Lastly, I prefer Android because, most of the phone/ tablet making companies chose Android except Apple. Google Play Store would provide with variety of apps and with diverse users, there would be faster and better evolution of app store.

Avoid the Overlapping Value Proposition

This blog post explains how overlapping value proposition could end up “cancelling each other out.” The companies that were used as examples are Coca Cola and Pepsi. When there was no use of convincing consumers with better tastes, Coca Cola and Pepsi decided to go with more distinct and emotional approaches. They had decided to convince customers by creating ‘personalities’ for their brands. The blog post explains that Coca Cola has positioned itself as a feel-good drink with consistent logos. On the other hand, Pepsi has been reinventing itself as the ‘cool drink.’ Even though they are both coke making companies, they were able to avoid ‘overlapping value proposition’ by looking at their challenges in other dimensions.

In COMM101 class, we have learned about value proposition. We have discussed Coca Cola vs Pepsi and saw advertisements. At first, I wondered how two companies would compete because they are selling similar products. I also thought that there are barely any taste difference between Coca Cola and Pepsi. After reading this blog, it was helpful for me to understand how companies could develop their value propositions even though they have similar products.

Understanding The Time Value of Money

If you were given A- $10,000 now OR B- $10,000 in three years, which option would you choose? The answer all depends on the time value of money

What is time value of money?

A dollar today is worth more than a dollar in the future, because the dollar received today can earn interest up until the time the future dollar is received. The answer for the above question is A because by receiving $10,000 now, you could invest and earn the interest. So the future value of the money for option A is $10,000+ interest. On the other hand, the future value of money for option B is just $10,000.

Future Value Basics

Future Value= Original Amount x (1+interest rate par period)^number of periods

Present Value Basics

Present Value= Future Value/(1+interest rate par period)^number of periods

As you now realized that time is money, you have to consider the Future value of money when you invest. It is important to calculate the future value of money to compare investments that offer you at different time periods.